John Stephans Named CEO of Avedis Zildjian

John Stephans was named CEO of the Avedis Zildjian Co. effective Jan. 2. Stephans will report directly to Craigie Zildjian, who will become executive chair, and maintain an active leadership role in the business.

“Since joining the company as president at the beginning of 2017, John has already had a major impact on the development and execution of the roadmap for growing the family of brands including Zildjian, Vic Firth and Balter Mallets,” said Craigie Zildjian. “Equally important, John’s previous management and leadership experience with leading brands such as Gillette, Ocean Spray, and IdeaPaint, together with his interpersonal style have allowed him to quickly assimilate into our unique culture and the music industry.”

“I could not be more honored and humbled by this appointment,” added Stephans. “For almost 400 years the Avedis Zildjian Co. and the Zildjian family have been on the forefront of making the world’s greatest musical instruments and implements by understanding where music is and where it is going. I hope to continue to lead the company to many years of growth while maintaining our legacy of leadership in the musical instruments category.”